West Point Cadet David Swanson recently completed his 429th lap around the Yukon High School track, having logged 107.25 miles in support of the Wounded Warrior Project, a non-profit organization that supports soldiers wounded in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The effort resulted in more than 300 runners and walkers joining him on the track over a 24-hour period, totaling a cumulative 1810 miles, raising at least $26,000 for the WWP.

 "I couldn't be more humbled and pleased," said Swanson. "In my wildest dreams, I couldn't have anticipated the response we got. Oklahomans proved once again their goodness and compassion, and I'm proud to call this place home."

 Calling his project the 24 Hour Brigade (www.24hourbrigade.com), ultramarathoner Swanson invited area runners, walkers, mothers with strollers - virtually anyone, to join him to raise funds for America's heroes with the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org). Individuals from around the country donated through the Brigade website, and Oklahomans donated in unexpected generosity on-site during the run. 

 "This idea was birthed in my heart as I ran by myself at West Point a few months ago," said Swanson. "I love America, I love the soldiers who are voluntarily sacrificing for freedom around the world, and I love to run.

 "This was a natural way for me to combine my passions toward a worthy cause,"  Swanson added. "It wasn't easy, and sometimes it wasn't fun, but it was well worth the effort."

 "Hundreds of people from all walks of life joined us on the track -- some to run, some to walk, and some to cheer us on," he continued. "It was an extraordinarily memorable experience, and I'm so pleased for the Wounded Warriors who will benefit from the generosity of good people they'll likely never meet.

 "The passion and compassion I've seen in people through this project was off the charts," Swanson concluded. "My heartfelt thanks to everyone who literally gave legs to this project, and made it a success."